Giovanna Calimano, a Realtor Associate with Yes Real Estate.
What was your first job in the realty industry? I was an administrative assistant to REO agents Alex Macau and Lenny Castells from 2008 to 2013. I still work alongside them as their buyer’s agent.
Where did you grow up? Born and raised in Miami
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? When I’m stressed, I usually take a step back from the situation at hand and either go for a drive, treat myself to a new top or an ice cream cone.
Growing up, what did you want to be? Honestly, something to do with forensics or psychology. The human mind and body have always fascinated me.
If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Malala Yousafzai, because I think she is just an amazing person and hearing her speak gives me such hope for young women all over the world! She’s such an inspiration, and I would have too many questions to ask her so it might be a long lunch…
Where is your favorite place to hang out? I’m more of a homebody, but when I do go out, I enjoy going to Earl’s in Dadeland or Lagniappe in Wynwood.
What do you love most about the industry? The clients I get to work with. I’ve had nothing but amazing clients so far since I’ve begun working in real estate. Their excitement once they’ve closed makes the job completely worthwhile!
How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I believe the main thing that distinguishes me from other agents is my customer service. I try to go above and beyond for all of my clients: paying for professional photos, being there at every showing possible and making them custom closing gifts. I want my clients to know that they aren’t just another closing for me, and I feel that I’ve accomplished that so far.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? The most difficult aspect is taking time off. As of right now, I do not have an assistant, but I can count on one or two other agents to help me with my clients when needed. Unfortunately I’m kind of a control freak so it’s difficult for me to not check in with my clients and make sure everything is going smoothly. That’s what happens when you really love what you do!
Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I tend to network more on social media than anywhere else. Across all of my social media accounts, I average two to five new leads a week.
What has been your greatest accomplishment? My greatest accomplishment so far has been my Yelp Business Page! As of today, I have 31 reviews and a five-star rating! I receive more leads from there than with most other social media outlets.
What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? The last good movie I saw was “The Room” and the last good book I read was Tina Fey’s “Bossy Pants.”
What is your favorite restaurant? Oh that’s a hard one! I would have to say Bombay Darbar in Coconut Grove. Best Indian restaurant in Miami!
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Miami? My favorite building is the Biltmore hotel. It’s beautiful and just so classic.
What kind of car do you drive? A Toyota Camry and I LOVE IT!
Smartphone or paper? Smartphone!
What is your favorite city after Miami? Denver, CO
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Shadow an accomplished Realtor and take notes!
What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? Docusign. It’s so great not needing to be at my computer to send a contract for signatures!
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter?
@ErnieatLYD
@Lin_Manuel
@XplodingUnicorn
@PattonOswalt
@FredrikEklundNY